Protests Against Trump and Musk Are Coming to Oberlin and Sandusky — But What About Vermilion?

On April 5, 2025, protests are planned across the country. People will take to the streets to speak out against President Donald Trump and Elon Musk. In northern Ohio, events are being organized in Oberlin and Sandusky. But in Vermilion, no official protest has been announced — only strong opinions and heated online debates.

So what’s really happening, and why are these protests drawing attention in our own backyard?

What Are the April 5 Protests About?

The protests are part of a national event called “Hands Off,” led by groups like Indivisible, Women’s March, and others. The protest is focused on stopping what organizers say is an attack on democracy, government programs, and basic rights.

The main concern is a new department in the federal government: the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, created by President Trump and led by Elon Musk. Protesters believe this department is cutting important programs and weakening democracy in the name of “efficiency.”

They say it’s time to speak up — and on April 5, they plan to do just that.

Where It’s Happening in Ohio

While the main protest is in Washington, D.C., Ohioans won’t have to travel far to take part. Demonstrations are scheduled in Oberlin and Sandusky, both within driving distance of Vermilion.

These cities have been more active in hosting progressive events in the past. It’s no surprise they’re stepping forward now. In contrast, no protests have been announced in Vermilion so far. But that doesn’t mean people aren’t talking about it.

What People in Vermilion Are Saying

A simple question — “Protesting what?” — sparked a long, emotional thread on social media. Some locals said they genuinely didn’t know what the protest was about and were looking for answers. Instead, they were met with sarcasm and personal attacks.

The conversations quickly grew tense. Some defended the protests and called them necessary. Others mocked them and said people should just “get over it” since Trump was elected again. One person claimed that protesting shows “ignorance,” while another said that those organizing rallies are “fighting for lies.”

There were also efforts to stay respectful. A few tried to explain that peaceful protest is a right, and not everyone involved is part of a political agenda. But even calm comments were met with ridicule.

The online debates show how divided Vermilion is — and how hard it is to have honest conversations about politics in today’s climate.

Oberlin vs. Vermilion: A Tale of Two Cities

Oberlin, a city known for its progressive views and activist community, is ready to protest. For years, residents there have organized marches, rallies, and events around national issues.

Vermilion, by contrast, leans more conservative. Many residents support President Trump and Elon Musk, and believe the government needs reform. Some in town say they don’t trust protests, or think these demonstrations are just ways for the “other side” to get attention.

The difference in how each town is responding to the same national issue shows how values and politics shape a community.

Fear, Fury, and Facebook Fights

If you’ve been on Facebook recently, you’ve probably seen the arguments. People are calling each other names, accusing others of being “brainwashed,” “traitors,” or worse. Some are even mocking the idea of protesting at all.

Others defend the right to protest but say they wouldn’t do it in a place like Vermilion. Some comments made jokes about past local protests, or warned people not to bring “drama” to town.

Even when someone tries to speak calmly, they often get caught in the crossfire of angry replies. The online comments show a town struggling to talk to itself.

#TeslaTakedown and FBI Warnings

Alongside the Hands Off protests, another movement is growing — one aimed directly at Elon Musk and Tesla. Called #TeslaTakedown, it includes demonstrations at Tesla dealerships across the country.

These protests are happening in places like Arizona, Florida, Michigan, and Ohio. Some have stayed peaceful, but others have turned violent. The FBI recently issued a warning after several dealerships were vandalized or shot at.

Because of this, a new task force was created to investigate these incidents. Organizers behind the movement say they are peaceful and do not support violence. They say their goal is to stop Musk from using his power to control the government.

What’s at Stake: Is Democracy Being Gutted?

Protesters say they are fighting to protect democracy. They believe Trump and Musk are cutting too many programs that help everyday Americans — like public education, healthcare, and retirement support.

The Trump administration disagrees. They say the Department of Government Efficiency is needed to stop government waste. Musk said the country is “going bankrupt” and that tough decisions have to be made.

A White House spokesperson said protests and lawsuits won’t stop Trump from doing what he promised — making the government more efficient and accountable.

What Happens Next?

With protests coming to Sandusky and Oberlin, will more cities in Ohio join in?

Right now, Vermilion seems more interested in talking than marching. Some say they would attend a protest if they felt safe. Others believe protests don’t work, or that they only make the country more divided.

In towns like Lorain, Amherst, or Huron, there haven’t been any confirmed events — but that could change.

What’s clear is that the protests are getting attention. What’s not clear is whether they’ll have any real effect on policy or public opinion.

Will Vermilion Stay Quiet — Or Speak Up?

This part of Ohio is no stranger to political disagreement. But what’s happening now feels bigger.

Whether you agree with the protesters or not, April 5 is shaping up to be an important day in American politics — and a test of how everyday people respond to big changes.

💬 What Do You Think?

• Do you think protests help bring change — or just cause more problems?
• Should Vermilion stay out of this, or should it get involved?
• Share your thoughts in the comments — and share this article with someone in Erie or Lorain County who needs to see both sides.